She knew exactly who he meant, but admitting it felt like giving in too easily. Maybe if she played dumb, she could delay it… even just a little.
He looked at her knowingly, winked, and walked toward the door.
She exhaled softly, her shoulders dropping. He saw through her as always—her sibling never missed a thing. And somehow, that made it even harder to refuse him.
"Go and reconcile with Arianna."
"No, father; it's over between us. I need… fresh air," he said before dashing out. Emma gently sat beside her father.
There was a brief silence. Then Ashley began,
"The documentation ritual has already begun. By tomorrow, the sealing and signing will be complete. We will be officially mated and that will make you my legitimate pup," he said, gripping Emily's hand firmly, as though the bond were already sealed. " Soft fang, make sure you invite your moonallies to Sunday's party."
"Ashley, I…."
"Father!" Emily corrected sharply. Emma realized their customs were different.
